Century II to Host Feed Haiti Event

Wichita Mayor Carl Brewer announced on Monday that the City of Wichita will partner with the hunger-relief-organization Numana and the Salvation Army to package food for Haiti earthquake survivors.

The food-packing event, known as “Million Meals For Haiti,” is scheduled for March 20 and 21 in Bob Brown Expo Hall at Century II.

Volunteers and local luminaries will package food at the event, which will run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on March 20 and from 1 to 6 p.m. on March 21. Organizers say the goal of the event is to package one million meals over two days for earthquake survivors living in Salvation Army relief camps in Haiti.

“Anyone can volunteer,” Mayor Brewer said. “Everyone can make a difference in the lives of people who continue to suffer from a devastating natural disaster. A little bit of your time can help make a big difference in the recovery effort.”

There is no cost to participate in the event and volunteers do not have to register. Organizers are asking volunteers for a minimum one-hour commitment. Most volunteers serve two-hour shifts in an assembly-line fashion packaging nutritious meals. Trainers and lead volunteers are asked for a four-hour commitment and to sign up online at www.millionmeals.net.

“Roll up your sleeves and help us fill 40 containers with one million meals of rice, soy protein, freeze-dried vegetables and a blend of 21 vitamins,” said Rick McNary, President and Chief Executive Officer of Numana, the El Dorado-based nonprofit that facilitates food-packaging events across the country.

Those who want to help can also make donations to help purchase meals, which cost 30 cents to prepare including ingredients and shipping.

For more details about the Century II event and participating organizations, please visit www.wichita.gov or tune in soon to City 7, Cox Cable Channel 7.